EXMOUTH RNLI's Volunteer crew were tasked to search an area of the River Exe following the activation of a DSC distress alert yesterday evening.

A spokesperson said : "At 7.12pm Friday 19th May 2023, H.M. Coastguard tasked the volunteer crew of both Exmouth RNLI all weather lifeboat 13-03 R & J Welburn and the relief inshore lifeboat D-792 Marie Theresa Bertha Barrass after multiple DSC distress alerts were received in the vicinity of the River Exe at Exton. The launch was authorised by Deputy Launch Authority, Rob Anderson."

Both lifeboats were launched very shortly afterwards. The all weather lifeboat crewed by Coxswain Steve Hockings-Thompson with Andy Stott, Roy Stott, James Edge, Geoff Mills, Guy Munnings and the inshore lifeboat by Helm Harry Griffin, Ed Steele and Dougie Wright. They were assisted on scene by Exmouth Coastguard Rescue Team.

"A thorough search of the River Exe was conducted by both lifeboats and a number of vessels were checked out by the volunteer crews. 

Nothing untoward was found and, satisfied that all avenues had been explored and no one was in distress, H.M. Coastguard stood down both boats at 8.20pm today."